Microbial Genomics

Rakesh Sharma

Scientist-G  |  Decision Unit 1: Genomics and Genome Biology
Professor  |  Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research

Portrait of Rakesh Sharma

Rakesh Sharma is interested in understanding microbial diversity and functions in environment and host using metagenomics and molecular genetics.

Specific Interests

  • Microbiome as a source of novel bioactive molecules and peptides
  • Stress tolerance and arsenic detoxification mechanisms from microbial communities
  • Metal ion homeostasis and membrane transporters in Mycobacteria

His group has identified a novel calcium uptake transporter of the P-type ATPase superfamily and demonstrated its importance for cell wall integrity in Mycobacterium smegmatis. The group is also working on exploiting the human microbiome for novel antimicrobials. Several microbial isolates from human skin, including a new genus (Auricoccus indicus), have been identified, many producing antimicrobial compounds and peptides.

Selected Publications

All Citations →